World Cup Hero Vozinha Honoured With Newly Named Marine Species

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has received a rare scientific honour after a newly discovered marine species was named after him following his outstanding performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The tiny red sea slug, measuring about four millimetres, has been officially named Aldisa vozinhai by Spanish marine biologist Professor Jesús Ortea in his latest publication, Historias de la Bioadversidad (Biodiversity Stories).

The species was discovered in Caribbean waters near Havana, Cuba, and Guadeloupe. Ortea said the naming recognised Vozinha’s inspiring World Cup displays and also honoured the people of Cape Verde, where the scientist received the country’s Medal of Environmental Merit in 2023 for his marine biodiversity research.

Vozinha, 40, emerged as one of the breakout stars of the tournament after producing a seven-save man-of-the-match performance in Cape Verde’s historic goalless draw against European champions Spain. The result marked one of the biggest achievements in the nation’s football history on its World Cup debut.

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The veteran goalkeeper continued his impressive form with another clean sheet against Saudi Arabia to help Cape Verde reach the knockout stage before delivering another seven-save performance in a thrilling 3-2 extra-time defeat to defending champions Argentina.

He also became the oldest player to feature in a country’s debut World Cup match at 40 years and 12 days.

Professor Ortea is known for linking science with football, having previously named a newly discovered marine species after former Costa Rica and Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas in 2019.

Vozinha’s World Cup exploits also sparked a massive rise in his global profile, with his Instagram following reportedly climbing from about 50,000 before the tournament to more than 28.5 million.

The naming of Aldisa vozinhai permanently links the Cape Verdean shot-stopper’s football achievements with the scientific world, making him one of the few athletes to have a newly discovered species bear his name.